How does miconazole topical work to treat fungal skin infections. What are the proper application methods for miconazole cream, spray, and powder. What precautions should be taken when using miconazole for yeast infections.

Understanding Miconazole Topical: A Powerful Antifungal Solution

Miconazole topical is a widely used medication for treating various fungal skin infections. As an antifungal agent belonging to the imidazole class, it effectively combats fungi by inhibiting their growth. This medication is available in several forms, including sprays, creams, powders, and tinctures, making it versatile for different types of fungal infections.

Common Uses of Miconazole Topical

• Tinea corporis (ringworm)
• Tinea cruris (jock itch)
• Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot)
• Tinea versicolor
• Yeast infections of the skin

It’s important to note that not all miconazole products are suitable for treating every condition listed above. Always read the product label carefully to ensure you’re using the right formulation for your specific fungal infection.

Proper Application Methods for Miconazole Topical

To maximize the effectiveness of miconazole topical, it’s crucial to apply it correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Wash the affected area thoroughly and dry it completely.
2. If using a spray or spray powder, shake the can well before use.
3. Apply a thin layer of the medication to cover the affected skin area.
4. For athlete’s foot treatment, pay extra attention to the spaces between toes.
5. When treating jock itch with powder, avoid applying it to open wounds.

Generally, miconazole topical is applied twice daily, in the morning and at night. However, always follow the specific instructions provided on the product label or by your healthcare provider.

Expected Treatment Duration and Results

The duration of treatment with miconazole topical varies depending on the type of fungal infection being treated. For jock itch, improvements should be noticeable within two weeks of consistent use. Athlete’s foot and ringworm typically require a longer treatment period, with symptoms improving over four weeks.

If your condition doesn’t improve within the expected timeframe or worsens at any point during treatment, it’s essential to consult your doctor. They may need to reassess your condition and consider alternative treatment options.

Safety Precautions and Potential Side Effects

While miconazole topical is generally safe when used as directed, there are some important precautions to keep in mind:

• Use only on the skin; avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or ingestion.
• Do not use on the scalp or nails.
• Spray and tincture forms are flammable; keep away from heat and open flames.
• Inform your doctor of any allergies or current medications before use.

Common side effects may include mild irritation or burning at the application site. If you experience a rash or any unusual symptoms, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider immediately.

Special Considerations for Different Formulations

Miconazole topical comes in various formulations, each with its own set of considerations:

Miconazole Cream

The cream formulation is often preferred for treating larger areas of skin or when a more moisturizing effect is desired. It’s particularly effective for dry, scaly fungal infections.

Miconazole Spray

Sprays are convenient for hard-to-reach areas or when minimal touching of the affected area is preferred. They’re often used for extensive tinea versicolor infections on the back or chest.

Miconazole Powder

Powder formulations are ideal for areas prone to moisture, such as between toes or in skin folds. They help keep the area dry, which is crucial in preventing fungal growth.

Lifestyle Modifications to Support Treatment

While using miconazole topical, certain lifestyle changes can enhance its effectiveness:

• Keep the affected area clean and dry.
• Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothing.
• Change socks and undergarments daily.
• Avoid sharing personal items like towels or shoes.
• Use antifungal powders in shoes to prevent reinfection.

These practices not only support the current treatment but also help prevent future fungal infections.

Proper Storage and Handling of Miconazole Topical

To maintain the effectiveness of miconazole topical and ensure safety, proper storage is essential:

• Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed.
• Store at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiration date.

For spray formulations, be aware of the flammability risk. Store these products away from heat sources and open flames to prevent accidents.

When to Seek Further Medical Advice

While miconazole topical is effective for many fungal skin infections, there are instances where additional medical intervention may be necessary. Consult your healthcare provider if:

• Symptoms persist or worsen after the recommended treatment duration.
• The infection spreads to new areas.
• You experience severe itching, burning, or other uncomfortable symptoms.
• You have a weakened immune system or diabetes.
• The infection recurs frequently despite treatment.

In these cases, your doctor may recommend alternative treatments, such as oral antifungal medications or combination therapies.

Potential Interactions with Other Medications

Although miconazole topical is applied to the skin and not typically absorbed systemically in significant amounts, it’s still important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re currently taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

In rare cases, topical antifungals may interact with other medications, particularly if used on large areas of skin or for extended periods. Your doctor can assess potential interactions and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

Natural Remedies to Complement Miconazole Treatment

While miconazole topical is often sufficient for treating fungal skin infections, some individuals may prefer to complement their treatment with natural remedies. Here are some options that may support skin health and fungal resistance:

• Tea tree oil: Known for its antifungal properties, it can be diluted and applied topically.
• Coconut oil: Contains lauric acid, which has antifungal and antimicrobial effects.
• Apple cider vinegar: May help balance skin pH and create an unfavorable environment for fungi.
• Garlic: Contains allicin, a compound with antifungal properties.
• Probiotics: Can support overall immune function and skin health.

It’s important to note that these natural remedies should not replace prescribed antifungal treatments. Always consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating complementary therapies into your treatment regimen.

Dietary Considerations for Fungal Infections

While topical treatments like miconazole directly address the infected area, some dietary changes may support overall skin health and potentially reduce susceptibility to fungal infections:

• Reduce sugar intake, as fungi thrive on sugar.
• Incorporate probiotic-rich foods to support gut and skin microbiome balance.
• Consume foods high in vitamin C and zinc to support immune function.
• Stay hydrated to promote overall skin health.

Remember that dietary changes alone are not a substitute for proper medical treatment of fungal infections. They should be viewed as complementary measures to support overall health and potentially enhance the effectiveness of antifungal medications.

Preventing Recurrence of Fungal Skin Infections

After successfully treating a fungal skin infection with miconazole topical, taking steps to prevent recurrence is crucial. Here are some preventive measures:

• Maintain good hygiene practices, including regular washing and thorough drying of prone areas.
• Use antifungal powders or sprays in shoes and on feet regularly, especially if you’re prone to athlete’s foot.
• Avoid walking barefoot in public areas like locker rooms or swimming pools.
• Choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics for clothing, especially for workout gear.
• Change out of damp or sweaty clothes promptly.
• Keep skin folds dry and clean, using antifungal powders if necessary.
• Avoid sharing personal items like towels, combs, or shoes.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce the risk of fungal infections recurring.

Understanding the Importance of Completing the Full Course of Treatment

One common mistake in treating fungal infections is stopping the medication once symptoms improve. It’s crucial to complete the full course of miconazole topical treatment as prescribed, even if the visible signs of infection have disappeared. This ensures that all fungal organisms are eradicated, reducing the risk of recurrence or development of resistant strains.

Special Populations and Miconazole Use

While miconazole topical is generally safe for most individuals, certain populations may require special considerations:

Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using miconazole topical. While topical antifungals are generally considered low-risk, your doctor can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

Children

Miconazole topical is often safe for use in children, but the appropriate formulation and dosage may vary. Always consult a pediatrician before using antifungal medications on children.

Elderly Individuals

Older adults may have more sensitive skin or be more prone to certain side effects. They should use miconazole topical as directed and report any unusual reactions to their healthcare provider.

Individuals with Compromised Immune Systems

People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, may be more susceptible to fungal infections and may require more intensive or prolonged treatment. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential for this group.

Environmental Factors and Fungal Infections

Understanding the environmental conditions that promote fungal growth can help in both treatment and prevention. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, which is why certain areas of the body are more prone to infections. Consider these environmental factors:

• Humidity: High humidity levels can increase the risk of fungal growth on the skin.
• Temperature: Warm environments promote fungal proliferation.
• Occlusion: Areas of the body that are frequently covered or have skin-to-skin contact are more susceptible.
• pH levels: Some fungi prefer slightly acidic environments, which is why maintaining proper skin pH can be beneficial.

By managing these environmental factors, you can create conditions less favorable for fungal growth, supporting the effectiveness of miconazole topical treatment.

The Role of Personal Hygiene in Treatment and Prevention

Proper personal hygiene plays a crucial role in both the treatment of existing fungal infections and the prevention of future occurrences. Here are some key hygiene practices to incorporate:

• Regular bathing or showering, paying extra attention to areas prone to fungal infections.
• Thorough drying of the skin, especially in skin folds and between toes.
• Using separate towels for different body parts to prevent spreading infections.
• Regularly washing and changing socks, underwear, and other clothing that comes into direct contact with prone areas.
• Avoiding the sharing of personal items like combs, brushes, or nail clippers.

These practices, combined with the proper use of miconazole topical, can significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of reinfection.

Long-Term Management of Recurrent Fungal Infections

For individuals prone to recurrent fungal infections, long-term management strategies may be necessary. This might include:

• Regular use of preventive antifungal products, such as powders or sprays.
• Periodic check-ups with a dermatologist or primary care physician.
• Identifying and addressing underlying factors that may contribute to frequent infections, such as diabetes or immune system disorders.
• Considering lifestyle changes that may reduce susceptibility to fungal infections.

In some cases, your healthcare provider might recommend a maintenance therapy regimen using miconazole topical or other antifungal medications to prevent recurrences.

The Importance of Proper Diagnosis

While miconazole topical is effective for many fungal skin infections, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re treating the right condition. Some skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, can mimic the appearance of fungal infections. If you’re unsure about your symptoms or if they persist despite treatment, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. This may involve a physical examination, skin scrapings, or other diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of a fungal infection and determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments

As with many areas of medicine, research into fungal infections and their treatments is ongoing. Some areas of current interest include:

• Development of new antifungal agents with broader spectrum activity or improved efficacy.
• Exploration of combination therapies that may enhance treatment outcomes.
• Investigation into the role of the skin microbiome in preventing and treating fungal infections.
• Research on novel delivery methods for antifungal medications to improve absorption and efficacy.

While miconazole topical remains a highly effective treatment for many fungal skin infections, staying informed about new developments can help you make the best decisions for your health in consultation with your healthcare provider.

The Global Impact of Fungal Skin Infections

Fungal skin infections affect millions of people worldwide, with significant variations in prevalence based on geographic location, climate, and socioeconomic factors. In some regions, these infections represent a substantial public health concern. Understanding the global impact of fungal skin infections highlights the importance of effective treatments like miconazole topical and the need for continued research and education in this field.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of fungal skin infections and their treatments, it’s clear that medications like miconazole topical play a crucial role in managing these common conditions. By combining proper medication use with good hygiene practices, environmental management, and a holistic approach to skin health, individuals can effectively combat fungal infections and maintain healthy skin.

Miconazole Topical: MedlinePlus Drug Information

pronounced as (mi kon’ a zole)

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Topical miconazole is used to treat tinea corporis(ringworm; fungal skin infection that causes a red scaly rash on different parts of the body), tinea cruris (jock itch; fungal infection of the skin in the groin or buttocks), and tinea pedis (athlete’s foot; fungal infection of the skin on the feet and between the toes). Miconazole is in a class of antifungal medications called imidazoles. It works by stopping the growth of fungi that cause infection.

Not all products should be used to treat all of these conditions. Please read the label for each product to select the one to treat your condition.

Topical miconazole comes as a spray, spray powder, cream, powder, and tincture to apply to the skin. It is usually applied twice a day (morning and night). Follow the directions on the package label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use miconazole exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than directed on the package or as directed by your doctor.

Topical miconazole is only for use on the skin. Do not let miconazole get into your eyes or mouth, and do not swallow the medication. Miconazole does not work on the scalp or nails.

If you are using miconazole to treat jock itch, your symptoms should improve over 2 weeks of treatment. If you are using miconazole to treat athlete’s foot or ringworm, your symptoms should improve over 4 weeks of treatment. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve during this time or if your symptoms get worse at any time during your treatment.

Miconazole spray, spray powder, and tincture may catch fire. Do not use these products near heat or an open flame, such as a cigarette.

To use topical miconazole, wash the affected area and dry thoroughly. If you are using the spray or spray powder, shake the can well. Then apply a small amount of spray, spray powder, cream, powder, or tincture to cover the affected area of skin with a thin layer.

If you are treating athlete’s foot, pay special attention to the spaces between the toes when applying miconazole. Also, be sure to wear well-fitting shoes that allow for air circulation, and change shoes and socks at least once a day.

If you are treating jock itch with the powder, do not apply the powder to any open wounds.

Topical miconazole may be used to treat tinea versicolor (fungal infection of the skin that causes brown or light colored spots on the chest, back, arms, legs, or neck) or yeast infections of the skin. Talk to your doctor about the risks of using this medication for your condition.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Before using topical miconazole,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to miconazole, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in miconazole spray, spray powder, cream, powder, or tincture. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while using miconazole, call your doctor.

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double amount to make up for a missed dose.

Miconazole may cause side effects. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using miconazole and call your doctor:

• irritation or burning in the place where you applied the medication
• rash

Miconazole may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while using this medication.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online (http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom).

It is important to keep all medication out of sight and reach of children as many containers (such as weekly pill minders and those for eye drops, creams, patches, and inhalers) are not child-resistant and young children can open them easily. To protect young children from poisoning, always lock safety caps and immediately place the medication in a safe location – one that is up and away and out of their sight and reach. http://www.upandaway.org

Unneeded medications should be disposed of in special ways to ensure that pets, children, and other people cannot consume them. However, you should not flush this medication down the toilet. Instead, the best way to dispose of your medication is through a medicine take-back program. Talk to your pharmacist or contact your local garbage/recycling department to learn about take-back programs in your community. See the FDA’s Safe Disposal of Medicines website (http://goo. gl/c4Rm4p) for more information if you do not have access to a take-back program.

If someone swallows miconazole topical, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

• Desenex^®
• Fungoid^® Tincture
• Lotrimin^® AF Athlete’s Foot Spray Deodorant Powder
• Lotrimin^® AF Athlete’s Foot Spray Powder
• Lotrimin^® AF Athlete’s Foot Spray Liquid
• Lotrimin^® AF Athlete’s Foot Powder
• Lotrimin^® AF Jock Itch Spray Powder
• Micatin^® Cream
• Monistat-Derm^®¶
• Ting^® Antifungal Spray Powder
• Vusion^® Ointment (as a combination product containing Miconazole, Zinc Oxide)
• Zeasorb^®-AF Powder

^¶ This branded product is no longer on the market. Generic alternatives may be available.

Last Revised – 11/15/2022

Browse Drugs and Medicines

Anti-Fungal Solutions: Think twice before reaching for the Neosporin!

by Dr. Stacey Matthews Branch

Yeast is a fungus that normally inhabits the skin, digestive tract, and vagina without causing any harm. Yeast infections (candidiasis) occur when something triggers the yeast to overgrow (eg., stress, weakened immune system, antibiotic treatments). Skin yeast infections can cause scaly, red, and irritated, patches on the skin that may or may not itch. It’s often tempting to self-diagnose and use something that may not actually help to resolve the infection. A common OTC product that people go to is Neosporin or similar formulations. However, these typically contain the antibacterials bacitracin, neomycin (linked to allergic reactions in some people), and polymixin b that have no effectiveness against fungi.

Using antibacterial substances on yeast-infected skin increases the risk of destroying the healthy competing skin bacterial flora and making a yeast infection worse. Neosporin AF (containing miconozole) is marketed for athlete’s foot and jock itch. These specific skin fungal infections are caused by the Tinea genus of fungus. Although some yeast infections can respond to miconozole, another antifungal drug (topical or even a form taken internally) may be more appropriate and prescribed by your doctor.

Another go-to remedy is hydrocortisone cream, however, it is also not a suitable option in the case of skin fungal infections because the infection can actually worsen due to the steroid’s immune-weakening effect.

Nonfungal conditions such as lip eczema or angular cheilitis have been mistaken for a fungal infection. Eczema is an inflammatory condition resulting from an abnormal allergic response or atopy (1,2). A related condition involving the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis) can be caused by a fungal infection, but many other factors including nutritional, immune, chemical, and environmental also play a role(3). A good approach to alleviating the irritation associated with a skin yeast infection is keeping the skin well hydrated, avoiding inflammatory foods, and using products that can help restore the skin’s healthy state naturally.

Results of a number of scientific studies have demonstrated the healing effects of aloe vera, which have been attributed to its many antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial components such as aloe-emodin, aloin, and acemannan (4). Spirulina is a type of algae that contains compounds (phenolics, phycocyanins, and polysaccharides) with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulating effects (5,6). Post-Traumatic Response Gel formulated with aloe vera, spirulina, and other beneficial natural substances may afford the healing properties needed to help the skin recover from minor skin trauma including that caused by yeast infection.

References

 

1. Schena D, Fantuzzi F, Girolomoni G. Contact allergy in chronic eczematous lip dermatitis. Eur J Dermatol. 2008 Nov-Dec;18(6):688-92.
2. Hitz Lindenmüller I, Itin PH, Fistarol SK. Dermatology of the lips: inflammatory diseases. Quintessence Int. 2014 Nov-Dec;45(10):875-83.
3. Lugović-Mihić L, Pilipović K, Crnarić I, Šitum M, Duvančić T. Differential Diagnosis of Cheilitis – How to Classify Cheilitis? Acta Clin Croat. 2018 Jun;57(2):342-351.
4. Sánchez M, González-Burgos E, Iglesias I, Gómez-Serranillos MP. Pharmacological Update Properties of Aloe Vera and its Major Active Constituents. Molecules. 2020 Mar 13;25(6):1324
5. Finamore A, Palmery M, Bensehaila S, Peluso I. Antioxidant, Immunomodulating, and Microbial-Modulating Activities of the Sustainable and Ecofriendly Spirulina. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2017;2017:3247528.
6. Gunes S, Tamburaci S, Dalay MC, Deliloglu Gurhan I. In vitro evaluation of Spirulina platensis extract incorporated skin cream with its wound healing and antioxidant activities. Pharm Biol. 2017 Dec;55(1):1824-1832.

Dermatological preparation for skin problems in the pharmacy

Dermatological problems? Acne , warts , fungal infections , scars … Skin problems are the first reason to consult a dermatologist. Acne, rosacea, herpes .. .: facial dermatology covers many pathologies

How to treat skin problems with pharmaceutical preparations?

Topical corticosteroids on the skin began to be used in the early 1950s. Since Marion B. Sulzberger’s discovery of the efficacy of topical hydrocortisone in inflammatory or proliferative skin conditions, more potent derivatives have been synthesized and indications for topical corticosteroids have increased. Thus, topical corticosteroids are potent, surface-acting anti-inflammatory drugs used in many inflammatory pathologies, chronic (psoriasis, eczema, atopic dermatitis, etc.) or acute (insect or plant stings). These topical agents may cause undesirable effects, in particular local ones, such as skin atrophy, stretch marks, telangiectasias, infection, delayed healing, hypertrichosis, perioral dermatitis, discoloration, hypertrichosis, acne aggravation or rosacea. …

Therefore, their use requires strict adherence to clear rules . In addition, pharmacist advice is essential to ensure adequate use of and treatment success. ( Source )

Discover our new range of medicines to effectively treat skin problems at an ARS approved online pharmacy.

• Acne
• Recovery
• Sunburn
• Disinfectants
• Diaper rash
• Yeast infection
• Irritated skin
• Insect bites
• Warts and calluses

No medicines will be shipped outside of France. Only available for online sale in France and taken directly from the pharmacy in Perpignan (France).

The purchase of medicines indicated in dermatology is available at your online pharmacy.

Every day the skin is exposed to numerous external influences, sources of itching, redness, dryness, etc. Ugly, sometimes infectious skin problems are numerous and often difficult to get rid of easily. In this category you will find medicines ranging from acne to shingles to treat most conditions.

Skin problems can happen to anyone (infants, children or adults) at any time, regardless of your age or general health. Dermatological problems are varied and varied, they can be serious, such as skin diseases, or much more acceptable as they are more aesthetic.

In addition, the skin (or dermis ) is our largest organ, accounting for approximately 10% of our entire body . This means that the skin can be the cause of serious health problems. Dermatological diseases (such as fungal infections) are numerous and often difficult to diagnose. They can be divided into three large groups of pathologies. Inflammatory skin diseases such as eczema, psoriasis, urticaria (chronic conditions that patients learn to treat and for which they present mainly in the acute phase), malignant diseases (cancer) and infectious diseases (bacterial or viral). They show up differently on the skin, so it’s important to see a dermatologist the first time skin lesions or worrisome symptoms appear.

Dermatological diseases are numerous and often difficult to diagnose. A significant number of French people are diagnosed with a skin disease every year. Dermatological diseases cause certain symptoms that are especially difficult to experience in everyday life. Skin diseases can be divided into 3 groups: inflammatory skin diseases (eczema, psoriasis, urticaria, acne, herpes, fungal infections), chronic conditions (rosacea, actinic keratosis) and malignant diseases (skin cancer, melanoma and carcinoma). These diseases manifest themselves in different ways on the skin.

Each disease is treated in its own way. Let your doctor prescribe the ones that are right for you, depending on the symptoms you are feeling, as well as your age and general health.

Since skin diseases affect a significant portion of the population, many mild treatments have been developed for acne, eczema, yeast infection, or burns. Among all these medicines there are many creams very common in dermatology due to their practicality and their local application.

Pharmacist advice

• Some topical or oral treatments are photosensitizing and do not require sun exposure during treatment.
• There are certain medicines that should not be used during pregnancy.
• Do not hesitate to contact your doctor again if the prescribed treatment does not relieve symptoms enough.

Terbinafine-mff cream for external use 1% 15g

Composition

Composition per 100 g of ointment.

Active substance:

Terbinafine hydrochloride -1.00 g

Excipients: – up to 100 g acids MARS-06) – 1. 50 g

Polysorbate-80 (Tween-80) – 1.00 g

Vaseline oil – 5.00 g

Propylene glycol – 10.00 g

Purified water – 81.00 g

Dosage form

ointment for external use

Description

white ointment with a characteristic odor.

Pharmacodynamics

Pharmacological properties. An antifungal drug for topical use with a wide spectrum of antifungal activity. In small concentrations, terbinafine has a fungicidal effect on dermatophytes (Trychophyton rubrum, T.mentagrophytes, T.verrucosum, T.violaceum, T.tonsurans, Microsporum canis, Epidermophyton floccosum), molds (mainly Candida albicans and certain dimorphic fungi (Pityrosporum orbiculare ) Activity against yeast fungi, depending on their type, can be fungicidal or fungistatic.0005

Terbinafine specifically alters the early stage of sterol biosynthesis in fungi. This leads to a deficiency of ergosterol and to intracellular accumulation of squalene, which causes the death of the fungal cell. The action of terbinafine is carried out by inhibiting the enzyme squalene epoxidase, located on the cell membrane of the fungus.

Terbinafine has no effect on the cytochrome P450 system in humans and, accordingly, on the metabolism of hormones or other drugs.

Pharmacokinetics

When applied topically, absorption is less than 5%, has a slight systemic effect.

Indications for use

Prevention and treatment of fungal infections of the skin, including athlete’s foot (foot fungus), athlete’s groin (tinea cruris), fungal infections of the smooth skin of the body (tinea corporis), caused by dermatophytes such as Trichophyton (including including, T. rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, T. verrucosum, T. violaceum), Microsporum ccinis and Epidermophyton floccosum.

Yeast infections of the skin, mainly those caused by the genus Candida (eg Candida albicans), in particular diaper rash.

Pityriasis versicolor caused by Pityrosporum orbiculare (also known as Malassezia furfur).

Contraindications

No cases of drug overdose have been reported. If terbinafine ointment is accidentally taken orally, the same side effects can be expected as with an overdose of terbinafine tablets (headache, nausea, epigastric pain and dizziness).

Treatment: activated charcoal, if necessary, symptomatic supportive therapy.

Use in pregnancy and lactation

No teratogenic properties of terbinafine have been identified in experimental studies. The use of the drug during pregnancy is possible in cases where the intended benefit to the mother outweighs the possible risk to the fetus. Terbinafine is excreted in breast milk. If necessary, the use of the drug during lactation should decide on the termination of breastfeeding.

Side effects

Redness, itching or burning sensation may occur at the application site. Allergic reactions.

Interactions

No drug interactions are known for terbinafine ointment.

Dosage and administration

Externally.

Adults and children over 12 years old:

Before applying the ointment, clean and dry the affected areas. The ointment is applied once or twice a day with a thin layer on the affected skin and adjacent areas and lightly rubbed. For infections accompanied by diaper rash (under the mammary glands, in the interdigital spaces, between the buttocks, in the inguinal region), the places where the ointment is applied can be covered with gauze, especially at night.

Average duration of treatment:

Ringworm of the trunk, lower legs: 1 week 1 time per day Dermatomycosis of the feet: 1 week 1 time per day times a day

A decrease in the severity of clinical manifestations is usually noted in the first days of treatment. In case of irregular treatment or its premature termination, there is a risk of recurrence of the infection. If after one to two weeks of treatment there are no signs of improvement, the diagnosis should be verified.

The dosing regimen of terbinafine ointment in the elderly does not differ from that described above.

The use of the drug in children. The use of this drug in children under 12 years of age is not recommended.

Overdose

No cases of drug overdose have been reported. If terbinafine ointment is accidentally taken orally, the same side effects can be expected as with an overdose of terbinafine tablets (headache, nausea, epigastric pain and dizziness).

Treatment: activated charcoal, if necessary, symptomatic supportive therapy.

Special instructions

A decrease in the severity of clinical manifestations is usually noted in the first days of treatment. In case of irregular treatment or its premature termination, there is a risk of recurrence of the infection.

Terbinafine ointment is for external use only. Avoid contact with eyes as it may cause irritation. In case of accidental contact of the drug with the eyes, they should be rinsed immediately with running water, and in case of persistent irritation, it is necessary to consult a doctor.